Best Energy, Environment & ESG Lawyers in Portugal

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GFDL Advogados
Lisbon, Portugal

Founded in 2018
15 people in their team
Portuguese
English
French
Hungarian
Romanian
Energy, Environment & ESG Oil, Gas & Energy Climate Change Law +5 more
GFDL Advogados is an independent full-service law firm based in Lisbon. Our team comprises highly skilled advisors and lawyers with international experience in law and business affairs.Our dedicated teams handle all aspects of doing business and investing in Portugal. We consolidate intellectually...
Global Lawyers
Lisbon, Portugal

Founded in 1998
50 people in their team
Portuguese
English
Energy, Environment & ESG Oil, Gas & Energy Climate Change Law +5 more
Global LawyersGlobal Lawyers has a multidisciplinary team with proven experience and in-depth knowledge in all areas of law: litigation, public and private, corporate, real estate and foreign investment, out-of-court dispute resolution and arbitration, golden visa, visa and citizenship.We provide...

Founded in 2018
English
Energy, Environment & ESG Environmental Law & Compliance Oil, Gas & Energy +6 more
F+AS - Ferraz e Aguiar Soares, Sociedade de Advogados, SP, RL, is a distinguished Portuguese law firm with offices in Lisbon and Porto. The firm's team comprises seasoned lawyers, each with an average of 18 years of legal practice, ensuring that clients receive counsel from experienced...
Pais do Amaral Advogados
Coimbra, Portugal

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
Portuguese
English
Pais do Amaral Advogados resulted from an organizational reorientation of a previous law firm.Fighting for more than 20 years against all measures of power - and recently, let this not surprise anyone, even against definitive decisions of the Portuguese Courts - it is in this necessary force that...
Advogados sem fronteiras
Porto, Portugal

English
Advogados sem Fronteiras, a project of Marques & Tasoko Advogados, specializes in providing comprehensive legal services to individuals facing legal challenges in foreign countries. Their team of highly qualified attorneys is dedicated to assisting clients in establishing secure new lives abroad by...

Founded in 2024
English
Angelina Teixeira e Associados - Sociedade de Advogados, SP, RL, is a distinguished Portuguese law firm renowned for its comprehensive legal services across multiple practice areas. The firm's expertise encompasses Administrative and Public Procurement Law, Compliance including GDPR and Privacy,...
CMJVB, Advogados Associados, RL
Gondomar, Portugal

English
CMJVB, Advogados Associados, RL, is a distinguished law firm based in Gondomar, Portugal, offering a comprehensive range of legal services. The firm is committed to delivering personalized and efficient legal solutions across various practice areas, including civil, litigation, banking and finance,...

Founded in 1999
50 people in their team
Portuguese
English
Cerqueira Gomes & Associados is a renowned and experienced limited liability law firm, with widely-recognised expertise across the full spectrum of Portuguese law. The firm has been privileged to work with a wide range of clients involved in diverse areas of business, including...

Founded in 2017
English
Passos & Passos - Escritório de Advogados, R.L., established in 2017 and located in the heart of Espinho, Portugal, offers comprehensive legal services across various domains. The firm's primary practice areas include Civil Law, Criminal Law and Misdemeanors, Labor Law, Family and Succession Law...
Amaro da Luz Advogados
Coimbra, Portugal

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
Portuguese
English
We believe that the relationship between lawyer and client is based, above all, on trust and reflects a personal bond.We excel, therefore, in the zeal and rigor in the exercise of our profession, as it is our conviction that only the Law allows the true safeguard of society.In these times, it is...
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About Energy, Environment & ESG Law in Portugal

Energy, Environment & ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) law in Portugal is a growing and dynamic area driven by both national priorities and European Union regulations. As Portugal strives to transition toward renewable energy sources and a sustainable economy, compliance with environmental protection standards and ESG principles is becoming increasingly important for businesses and individuals alike. The legal framework covers areas such as energy production and consumption, pollution control, environmental licensing, conservation of natural resources, and the integration of ESG factors into corporate governance and reporting.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Legal assistance can be crucial for navigating the complex landscape of Energy, Environment & ESG law in Portugal. Some of the most common situations where you might need a specialist lawyer include:

  • Obtaining permits for energy projects, such as wind farms or solar plants
  • Environmental impact assessments for new developments or business operations
  • Compliance with EU and national environmental and energy regulations
  • Resolving disputes concerning land use, emissions, or contamination issues
  • Handling investigations or enforcement actions by regulatory authorities
  • Structuring and reporting ESG initiatives in accordance with legal and voluntary standards
  • Advising on mergers, acquisitions, and investments with environmental or energy risk considerations
  • Preparing sustainability and non-financial reports required by law for certain companies

Local Laws Overview

Portugal’s legal landscape for Energy, Environment & ESG is shaped by both national legislation and EU directives. Some of the key aspects include:

  • Energy Law: The country has made significant investments in renewable energy, especially wind and solar. Licensing, production, and distribution of energy are tightly regulated, with a focus on clean energy objectives.
  • Environmental Regulation: Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is mandatory for many projects. Waste management, air and water quality, and nature conservation laws must be observed by businesses and developers.
  • Climate Change Policies: Targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, energy efficiency, and carbon neutrality are driving legislative updates and compliance requirements for businesses.
  • ESG and Corporate Reporting: Listed companies and large organizations must comply with non-financial reporting obligations, particularly relating to environmental matters, social responsibility, and governance practices.
  • Public Participation and Access to Justice: The legal system allows for public consultation in environmental decision-making processes and offers avenues for challenging permits or actions that may harm the environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main renewable energy sources in Portugal?

Portugal primarily uses wind, solar, and hydropower energy. The government encourages investment and development in these areas to reach energy transition goals.

Is an environmental impact assessment required for all development projects?

Not all projects require an environmental impact assessment. The need for an EIA depends on the type, size, and location of the project as set out in Portuguese and EU legislation.

What are the responsibilities of companies regarding ESG in Portugal?

Companies, especially publicly listed and large organizations, must report on environmental, social, and governance aspects of their activities and can be held accountable for failing to meet certain standards.

What penalties apply for non-compliance with environmental laws?

Penalties range from administrative fines to suspension of activities and, in severe cases, criminal charges. Regulatory agencies actively monitor compliance.

How are carbon emissions regulated in Portugal?

Portugal is subject to EU climate and energy policies, which include emissions trading and targets for reducing greenhouse gases. Certain sectors must monitor and report emissions regularly.

Can individuals or NGOs challenge an environmental license?

Yes, individuals and NGOs have legal standing to challenge environmental licenses or permits before the administrative courts if there are grounds related to environmental harm.

Are there government incentives for renewable energy investments?

Yes, Portugal provides incentives such as feed-in tariffs, grants, and tax benefits to support investments in renewable energy projects.

Do small businesses have ESG compliance obligations?

Small businesses may have fewer reporting obligations, but they are still required to comply with environmental regulations. ESG standards can also apply through supply chain requirements.

How does Portugal implement EU environmental directives?

Portugal transposes EU directives into national law, often updating its legal codes and regulations to stay aligned with changes at the European level.

What role do municipalities play in environmental regulation?

Local municipalities issue certain permits, enforce environmental standards, and oversee land use planning, making them key actors in local Environmental and ESG matters.

Additional Resources

Several governmental bodies and organizations provide information and assistance related to Energy, Environment & ESG in Portugal:

  • Direção-Geral de Energia e Geologia (DGEG): Oversees energy policies and licensing
  • Agência Portuguesa do Ambiente (APA): Regulates environmental policies and impact assessments
  • Comissão do Mercado de Valores Mobiliários (CMVM): Regulates ESG reporting for listed companies
  • Ministério do Ambiente e da Ação Climática: Leads policy on environment and climate actions
  • Associação Portuguesa de Direito do Ambiente (APDA): Provides information and support on environmental law issues
  • European Union institutions: Offer directives, funding, and best practices relevant to Portugal

Next Steps

If you require assistance with Energy, Environment & ESG issues in Portugal, the recommended steps are:

  • Gather all relevant documentation regarding your project, company, or concern
  • Identify the specific issue or question you need help with
  • Seek advice from a qualified lawyer specializing in Energy, Environment & ESG law familiar with Portuguese regulations
  • Contact relevant governmental authorities for guidance on permits and compliance requirements
  • If necessary, engage with consultants or organizations for environmental assessments and ESG reporting
  • Prepare for possible public participation processes or consultations, especially if your matter involves local communities
  • Ensure you remain updated on developments in the legal framework, as Energy, Environment & ESG laws evolve rapidly in Portugal

Taking these steps can help you navigate the regulatory landscape, minimize risks, and achieve compliance in your Energy, Environment & ESG endeavors in Portugal.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Portugal through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Energy, Environment & ESG, experience, and client feedback. Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters. Get a quote from top-rated law firms in Portugal - quickly, securely, and without unnecessary hassle.

Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.